Identifying PG

Early diagnosis of PG can lead to faster treatment and better healing outcomes. Because PG is rare and can look like infections or other skin diseases, it is important to know the key signs. 

What does PG usually look like?

• Wounds usually start as a small bump, blister, or pustule that breaks down into a painful ulcer within a few days. 
• Wound edges are often red or purple with a raised or “rolled” border.
• Lesions can grow quickly, in a matter or days or weeks.
• Even wounds that are small are usually very painful.

What are common locations for PG?

• Legs, especially shins 
• Around surgical wounds
• Around stomas (peristomal PG) 
• On the arms, trunk, or face (less common) 

Clues that Something May Be PG 

• Wounds that worsen after injury or surgery (this is called pathergy)
• Wounds in people with inflammatory or autoimmune disorders (e.g., irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Wounds that do not improve with antibiotics alone 

When should I see a doctor?

If you have a rapidly growing, painful ulcer that isn’t healing, see a dermatologist as soon as possible